Creamy Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken pieces, hearty vegetables, and a velvety broth. This warm and satisfying dish is perfect for chilly days or when you need a nourishing meal in a bowl. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and loved by the whole family.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 3 cups (720ml) chicken broth
- 2 cups (480ml) milk or cream
- 2 cups (300g) cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup (60g) frozen peas
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Base:
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add Potatoes and Broth:
- Stir in the diced potatoes, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 10 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Make the Roux:
- In a separate pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk or cream, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until slightly thickened.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Pour the roux into the soup pot, stirring to combine. Add the shredded chicken and peas.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens and flavors meld together.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Garnish with fresh parsley or croutons, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Top with shredded cheese or crumbled bacon for extra indulgence.
Cooking Tips
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for a bright, tangy flavor.
- For extra creaminess, blend a portion of the soup before adding the chicken.
Nutritional Benefits
- Chicken: High in protein and essential amino acids.
- Vegetables: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Milk or Cream: Provides calcium and vitamin D.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the roux.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute milk or cream with coconut milk or almond milk.
- Low-Carb: Replace potatoes with cauliflower.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 15g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fats: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
- Creamy, hearty, and loaded with nutrients.
- Customizable to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Soup is a comforting classic that never goes out of style. With its rich and creamy broth, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction. Make it a part of your weekly menu and enjoy the wholesome goodness of homemade soup!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked? Yes, cook raw chicken in the broth until fully cooked, then shred and add back to the soup.
- What can I use instead of milk or cream? Coconut milk or almond milk are great dairy-free options.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Try adding spinach, kale, or corn for extra variety.
- How do I thicken the soup further? Add more roux or blend a portion of the soup before serving.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- Can I freeze the soup? Yes, but avoid freezing if using cream as it may separate. Use milk for freezer-friendly storage.
- What type of chicken works best? Rotisserie chicken, leftover cooked chicken, or boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well.
- Is it possible to make this vegetarian? Yes, replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
- Can I use canned peas instead of frozen? Yes, but add them at the end to avoid overcooking.
- What’s the best way to reheat the soup? Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in intervals.